Crush Your Goals Tip #3: Define YOUR Success Metrics

In our series aimed at helping you master your business goals for the next year, we've talked a lot about setting and prioritizing goals. Remember, goals are what you are going to do to achieve your vision of success. They should be bold, aspirational, and purpose-driven to propel your business forward.

Objectives are specific, measurable and support your goals. They help you understand where to focus your resources and when you've crossed the finish line.

But here's the kicker: when defining your objectives, don't just copy-paste last year's numbers ("Let's shoot for 15% growth since we did 10% last year!") or blindly follow industry trends. Your metrics should be deeply connected to YOUR vision of success. So, here's the next tip...

Tip #3: Define YOUR Success Metrics

For every goal you set for 2024, imagine what success looks like. Remember, a year can fly by, so be specific and prioritize while still keeping the big picture in view.

Here are a few more things to consider as you craft your objectives:

Set Numbers with Purpose - Revenue and fundraising goals are often top of mind, and for good reason. They are critical tools for success, along with time and staffing. But don't just aim for numbers because they look good in a published report. Connect every dollar earned to a bigger goal—like opening a new location, expanding your team, increasing your impact, or eliminating debt. And to increase buy-in from team members, make sure they know how these numbers tie into the grander vision.

Think Beyond the Numbers - While financial metrics are important, they shouldn't be your sole measure of success. Consider other aspects, such as diversifying revenue streams or clients, enhancing operational efficiency, growing your next generation of company leaders, launching educational programs and laying the groundwork for future growth.

Prioritize Sustainability - Burnout affects everyone, including business owners and leaders. As you set your objectives, include a metric that monitors the well-being of you and your team. Your goals should push the team, but hey, we all need to breathe and recharge. Make sure you consistently check-in with your team and schedule some downtown between those sprints!

Setting success metrics that go beyond numbers, align with your unique vision, and promote sustainable growth will lead to more meaningful and impactful goals in 2024.